Driving without a valid MOT

At Cartwright King Solicitors we understand that forgetting to MOT your car is a common mistake, but an illegal one nonetheless. Driving without a valid MOT can have serious consequences, including being given a heavy fine or suspension from driving. Our motoring solicitors have the knowledge and expertise to defend you in court against an allegation and are available to guide you every step of the way. We have offices across the country and can assist wherever you are based.

Who do I contact?

Once you have been accused of driving without a valid MOT, it is in your best interests to receive legal advice as soon as possible. Our motoring solicitors are more than happy to help, so please call 0808 168 5550 for a free initial telephone consultation or email info@cartwrightking.co.uk and we'll phone you back.

What is the law surrounding MOT’s?

Every car in the UK over 3 years old must undergo an annual MOT to ensure that it adheres to the minimum road safety and environmental standards. All UK registered vehicles’ test status regarding road tax, insurance and Ministry of Transport (MOT) are stored on computer databases which the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) have access to. They take monthly checks on the status of each vehicle and if they find any without an MOT, those details are passed on to the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) of police vehicles, where you can be identified by road side police cameras.

What are the punishments?

It is illegal to operate a vehicle that has not had its MOT, which means you are committing an offence and could be given the following punishments:

Fixed £60 penalty notice

A fine of up to £1000

Charge of 6-8 penalty points

Potential impounding of your vehicle

Invalid cover of insurance

The only exception to driving without an MOT is if you are on your way to the garage to MOT your vehicle. If you are stopped by the police, you must prove your appointment, most commonly by giving your garages contact details. If you do not cooperate you could face prosecution.

How can I avoid forgetting to MOT my vehicle?

Although you are breaking the law by driving without an MOT, it is an easy offence to commit given the numerous things we have to remember in our everyday lives. The easiest way to avoid making this common error is to ask your garage to remind you of your next MOT in advance which can be in the form of a telephone call, text or letter. Alternatively, the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) also operate a reminder service at a small cost of £1.50. To use this service, you must provide your latest MOT test certificate and use a UK registered mobile phone and vehicle.

How can we help you?

While most of the time it is difficult to avoid a punishment regarding driving without an MOT, everyone has the right to challenge an allegation. Our motoring solicitors are readily available to give you the essential advice and representation you need. The most common defences for driving without an MOT are:

Driving on the way to get your car MOT serviced

Your vehicle has been brought into the country from abroad for a temporary period of time

This is a complex area of the law and legal advice should be sought if you believe you have a defence.

Why Choose Us?

At Cartwright King, our solicitors understand the stress that an allegation can cause and the potential long term consequences that can affect you, your family and your future earning potential in losing your licence or car. We are available to support you throughout the entire process, explain the likely outcomes and fight on your behalf.

How to make contact

If you require any legal advice or if you would like a no obligation, free initial telephone discussion, then please call us on 0808 168 5550. Alternatively you can email the motoring team on info@cartwrightking.co.uk and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.